Humber Bridge toll sparks protest
Date: 03 September 2007
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Campaigners took to the Humber Bridge over the weekend to protest at crossing tolls that they claim are unfair to residents, businesses and hauliers alike.
Charges are currently levied on motorists travelling over the bridge in order to repay the investment owed from when it was constructed - the debt stood at £337 million in 2004-2005.
Campaign group Humber Action Against Tolls was at the forefront of the peaceful protest, which sought to highlight the effect of the fee on the local economy.
"The tolls are the most expensive in Britain and we want them gone," said spokeswoman Jenny Walton.
"They hurt families and businesses, discourage tourism and damage the economy on both sides of the river."
In particular, there has been concern that people needing to utilise the crossing to attend hospital appointments on the north bank of the river are being unfairly penalised.
It currently costs £2.70 for a car to cross the river, goods vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes must pay £4.90 and lorries exceeding 7.5 tonnes with four or more axles are charged £18.30 to use the bridge.
Bridgemaster Peter Hill told the Yorkshire Post that "the board would love to remove the debt for the benefit of the people" but that the debt "wouldn't disappear - it would appear on everyone's council tax bill".
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